Myofascial Release and Positional Release Techniques in Unilateral Trapezitis

Effectiveness of Myofascial Release and Positional Release Techniques on Pain, Cervical Range of Motion, and Neck Disability in Patients With Unilateral Trapezitis

Unilateral trapezitis is characterized by upper trapezius myofascial pain and trigger points and commonly causes neck pain, restricted cervical range of motion (ROM), and functional disability. While myofascial release (MFR) and positional release technique (PRT) are widely used, their comparative effectiveness remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effectiveness of MFR versus PRT combined with conventional exercises on pain, cervical lateral flexion ROM, and neck disability in young adults with unilateral trapezitis. Thirty participants (aged 20-25 years) with unilateral trapezitis were randomly assigned to two groups (n=15 each). Group A received MFR plus conventional treatment (active neck movements, trapezius stretching), while Group B received PRT plus the same conventional treatment. Interventions were delivered 3 days/week for 20 minutes/session over 2 months. Outcomes included Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), goniometric cervical lateral flexion ROM (affected/unaffected sides), and Neck Disability Index (NDI), measured pre- and post-intervention. Both MFR and PRT effectively improved pain, ROM, and disability in unilateral trapezitis. PRT demonstrated greater short-term benefits for pain reduction and functional improvement, suggesting it as the preferred initial intervention when rapid symptomatic relief is prioritized.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subjects diagnosed with trapezitis with trigger point by an orthopedic surgeon,
• with unilateral upper trapezius tender point,
• taut band palpable in upper trapezius muscle,
• excruciating spot tenderness at one point along the length of the taut band of upper trapezius muscle,
• restriction in cervical lateral flexion when measured, and
• pain elevated by elongating (stretching) the trapezius muscle

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants with history of cervical spine trauma or fracture,
• recent surgery on the cervical spine,
• skin condition around area to be treated,
• current use of anti-inflammatory medications,
• brachial nerve pain,
• deformities of the neck,
• sensory/perception anomalies close to the treatment area,
• radiculopathy or myopathy symptoms,
• degenerative cervical spine condition,
• with a history of cardiac illness or presence of a pacemaker,
• epilepsy,
• psychological disorder, and
• pregnant women